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Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 1 This booklet is designed to help prepare students for the Massachusetts Biology Test. The MCAS test is designed to measure individual student achievement relative to the standards outlined in the Massachusetts Science Curriculum Framework. The state uses the results to report student achievement to the public. Parents, teachers, and the school will use the results as one measure of student learning. To meet graduation requirements, students are required to pass the Massachusetts Math, English and Science Test. This booklet contains the following sections: 1. What can students and parents do at home? 2. What are the important 10th grade biology MCAS vocabulary words? a. Chemistry of Life MCAS Vocabulary b. Cell Biology MCAS Vocabulary c. Genetics MCAS Vocabulary d. Anatomy and Physiology MCAS Vocabulary e. Evolution and Biodiversity MCAS Vocabulary f. Ecology MCAS Vocabulary 3. How can studying Latin roots help a student with vocabulary mastery? 4. How can a student best study science vocabulary words? 5. How can a student get a better score on an open response question? 6. How do direction words give students clues for writing open response answers? 7. What are the hints for taking multiple-choice tests? 8. Where can students and parents access sample biology MCAS tests? Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 2 What can students and parents do at home? (click here to return to table of contents) 1. Stress to your child the importance of the science MCAS test as a graduation requirement. 2. Help your child study the science vocabulary identified as words covered on the MCAS tests. (See the list in this booklet) 3. Help your child study the directions words to identify what the questions require. (See the list in this booklet). 4. Have your child practice the sample MCAS tests. Especially have him/her do the open response questions. You and your child can then compare his/her answers to the graded samples. 5. Go over the list of hints to improve your child’s MCAS open response scores. 6. Encourage your child to read science articles from the newspaper or magazines (Time, National Geographic, etc.). Discuss the main ideas of the articles with him/her. Articles that include graphs and charts and some analysis of data are especially important. 7. Don’t Panic! Stick with it! Some of the material will come more easily for your child than other material. Encourage your child to work steadily and not to be discouraged. Success will build as he/she improves through practice. (click here to return to table of contents) Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 3 Chemistry of Life MCAS Vocabulary (click here to return to table of contents) acid active site adenine adenine adenosine diphosphate (ADP) adenosine triphosphate (ATP) amino acids amylase a chemical that releases hydrogen ions H+ in solution with water. The lower the pH the more acid it is. the specific area of an enzyme that links to the substrate molecule. a nitrogenous base found in DNA and RNA molecules One of the four nitrogen-containing bases occurring in nucleotides, the building blocks of the organic macromolecule group known as nucleic acids (DNA and RNA). Adenine is also the base in the energy carrying molecule ATP (adenosine triphosphate) which is the energy coin of the cell. nitrogenous base found in both DNA and RNA Lower energy form of ATP, having two (instead of the three in ATP) phosphhate groups attached to the adenine base and ribose sugar. a substance used by cells as an immediate source of chemical energy for the cell. A common form in which energy is stored in living systems; consists of a nucleotide (with ribose sugar) with three phosphate groups. The energy coin of the cell. organic compound that are the building blocks of proteins. The subunits (monomers) from which proteins (polymers) are assembled. Each amino acid consists of an amino functional group, and a carboxyl acid group, and differs from other amino acids by the composition of an R group. An enzyme that breaks down starch An enzyme secreted by the salivary glands that begins the breakdown of complex sugars and starches. the smallest unit of an element that can combine with other elements. atom atomic number The smallest indivisible particle of matter that can have an independent existence. The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 4 atomic weight base biochemical pathway biochemical reactions biochemistry bond carbohydrates carbon carbon dioxide catalysts / catalyze cellulose chitin chemical reaction coenzyme complementary nucleotides compound covalent bond cytosine denature The sum of the weights of an atom's protons and neutrons, the atomic weight differs between isotopes of the same element. a chemical that releases hydroxyl ion (OH-) in solution with water. A series of chemical reactions in living organisms Specific chemical processes that occur in living things. Chemical processes associated with living things. Also called a chemical bond. A connection between two atoms either as a result of sharing (covalent bond) or transferring (ionic bond) electrons. Organic molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen that serve as energy sources and structural materials for cells one of the six most important chemical elements for living things, forms the backbone of nearly all organic compounds. the inorganic compound from which plants get carbon for photosynthesis; waste product of cellular respiration substances that increases the rate of a chemical reaction A polysaccharide that is composed of unbranched chains of glucose; the major structural carbohydrate of plants, insoluble in water, and indigestible in the human intestine. A polysaccharide substance contained in fungi; also forms part of the hard outer covering of insects. process in which one or more substances are changed into others a chemical substance that helps an enzyme function (vitamins) The bonding preferences of nucleotides, Adenine with Thymine, and Cytosine with Guanine. Also referred to as complementary base pairing. A substance formed by two or more different kinds of elements atoms. combined in a fixed ratio. A chemical bond created by the sharing of electrons between atoms. nitrogenous base found in both DNA and RNA When a protein or enzyme loses its folded shape. Once the shape is lost, the protein can lose its function. High temperatures, too acidic or too basic conditions can cause a protein or enzyme to lose its shape. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 5 The hereditary material of all organisms, which contains the instructions for cellular activities, a nucleic acid molecule. deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) deoxyribose disaccharides double helix saturated fat element energy energy of activation enzyme enzyme-substrate complex fats A nucleic acid composed of two polynucleotide strands wound around a central axis to form a double helix; the repository of genetic information. Nucleic acid that functions as the physical carrier of inheritance for 99% of all species. The molecule is double-stranded and composed of two strands in an antiparallel and complementary arrangement. The basic unit, the nucleotide, consists of a molecule of deoxyribose sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases Five-carbon sugar found in nucleotides of DNA. Any type of carbohydrate known as a “double sugar” 1. Sugars made up of two monosaccharides held together by a covalent bond; e.g., sucrose and lactose. 2. Type of sugar (saccharide) composed of two sugar molecules bonded together with an ester (covalent) bond examples include sucrose, maltose, and lactose. The shape of the DNA molecule. Also known as a spiral staircase. a type of fat molecule in which all available bonding sites on the hydrocarbon chains are taken up with hydrogen atoms. (no double bonds) The simplest form of matter; an element is a substance made up of a single type of atom, A substance composed of atoms with the same atomic number; cannot be broken down in ordinary chemical reactions. The ability to bring about changes or to do work. The minimum amount of energy required for a given reaction to occur; varies from reaction to reaction. Protein molecules that act as catalysts in biochemical reactions. an enzyme locked onto the substrate on which it acts. Also known as lipids. Triglycerides that are solid at room temperature. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 6 the segments of DNA that contain the genetic information for a particular trait or protein. gene genetic material glucose Specific segments of DNA that control cell structure and function; the functional units of inheritance. Sequence of DNA bases usually code for a polypeptide sequence of amino acids. DNA or RNA a monosaccharide produced in photosynthesis and used by both plants and animals as a “fuel” in the process of respiration. A six-carbon single sugar; the most common energy source. that lead to reproductive isolation of those populations. made in animals as a means of storing glucose; stored in the liver and in the muscles. glycogen guanine homeostasis hydrolysis hypothesis inorganic molecule ion ionic bond isotopes lipids that lead to reproductive isolation of those populations, consisting of numerous glucoses linked together. The animal equivalent of starch. One of the nitrogenous bases in nucleic acids, found in both DNA and RNA, guanine is one of the two purine bases. Guanine pairs with cytosine. in the body, the maintenance of a constant internal environment the chemical process by which a complex food molecule is split into simpler components through the addition of a molecule of water to the bonds holding it together. An idea that can be experimentally tested; an idea with the lowest level of confidence. any compound that does not contain carbon and hydrogen. Example: carbon dioxide. An atom that has lost or gained electrons from its outer shell and therefore has a positive or negative charge, respectively; symbolized by a superscript plus or minus sign and sometimes a number, e.g., H+, Na+1, ClA chemical bond in which atoms of opposite charge are held together by electrostatic attraction. Atoms with the same atomic number but different numbers of neutrons; indicated by adding the mass number to the element's name, e.g., carbon 12 or 12C. the group of organic compounds that includes fats, oils, and waxes. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 7 macromolecules metabolism molecules monosaccharides mutation nitrogenous base nucleic acids nucleotide sequences Large molecules made up of many small organic molecules that are often referred to as monomers; e.g., carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Macromolecules are polymers of monomers. all the chemical reactions that take place in an organism. Units of two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds. The combination of atoms by chemical bonds with the component atoms in definite proportions, such as water (two H to one O). Simple carbohydrates, usually with a five- or six-carbon skeleton; e.g., glucose and fructose. A carbohydrate composed of a single sugar unit, such as glucose, ribose, deoxyribose, etc. Any change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA; can involve substitutions, insertions, or deletions of one or more nucleotides. There can also be chromosomal mutations a chemical unit composed of carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen that is a component part of a nucleotide unit. Polymers composed of nucleotides; e.g., DNA and RNA. The genetic code encrypted in the sequence of bases along a nucleic acid. the building blocks or subunits of DNA; they include four types of nitrogen bases, which occur only in pairs. The subunits of nucleic acids; composed of a phosphate, a sugar, and a nitrogen-containing base. The fundamental structural unit of the nucleic acid group of nucleotides organic macromolecules. Some nucleotides are involved in information storage (as nucleotides in DNA), protein synthesis (as nucleotides in RNA), and energy transfers (as single nucleotide ATP, GTP, and double nucleotide NADH and NADPH). organic compound or organic compounds that contains carbon and hydrogen (in living molecule things) a type of chemical bond that links the nitrogen atom of peptide bond one amino acid with the terminal carbon atom of second amino acid in the formation of a peptide bond. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 8 a measure (on a scale of 0 to 14) of how acidic or basic a solution is. Most acidic is a pH of 0, least acidic is 14. a pH of 7 is neutral. pH The negative logarithm of the H+ ion concentration. The pH is a measure of the acidity or basic character of a solution. Since it measures a fraction, the larger the pH number, the less H ions are present in a solution. The process by which plant cells use the energy of sunlight convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, with oxygen being released. photosynthesis polymer polysaccharides proteins ribonucleic acid (RNA) Nucleic acid containing ribose simple sugars solvent starch The conversion of unusable sunlight energy into usable chemical energy, associated with the actions of chlorophyll. Organic molecule composed of smaller units known as monomers. A large molecule composed of smaller subunits, for example starch is a polymer of glucose, proteins are polymers of amino acids. Long chains of monosaccharide units bonded together; e.g., glycogen, starch, and cellulose. the group of organic compounds made up of chains of amino acids. Polymers made up of amino acids that perform a wide variety of cellular functions. One of the classes of organic macromolecules that function as structural and control elements in living systems. Proteins are polymers of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. ribose sugar and the base Uracil; RNA functions in protein synthesis. The single stranded molecule transcribed from one strand of the DNA. There are three types of RNA, each is involved in protein synthesis. RNA is made up nucleotides containing the sugar ribose, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases (adenine, uracil, cytosine or guanine). A five-carbon sugar found as a component part of the nucleotides of RNA molecules and in ATP. single sugars that have six carbon atoms; glucose The substance that does the dissolving in a solution. For example, salt dissolved in water. Water is the solvent because it dissolves the salt. a carbohydrate made up of many glucose molecules; used for energy storage in plants. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 9 synthesis thymine uracil the process in which organisms manufacture the complex compounds required to sustain life. a nitrogenous base found only in DNA. Thymine pairs with adenine. nitrogenous base found only in RNA Cell Biology MCAS Vocabulary (click here to return to table of contents) active transport adenosine diphosphate (ADP) adenosine triphosphate (ATP) amino acids Animalia. Archaea Archaebacteria asexual reproduction movement of substances across a membrane form an area of lower concentration to an area of higher concentration; requires energy. Transport of molecules against a concentration gradient (from regions of low concentration to regions of high concentration) with the aid of proteins in the cell membrane and energy from ATP. Lower energy form of ATP, having two (instead of the three in ATP) phosphate groups attached to the adenine base and ribose sugar. a substance used by cells as an immediate source of chemical energy for the cell. A common form in which energy is stored in living systems; consists of a nucleotide (with ribose sugar) with three phosphate groups. The energy coin of the cell. organic compound that are the building blocks of proteins. The subunits (monomers) from which proteins (polymers) are assembled. Each amino acid consists of an amino functional group, and a carboxyl acid group, and differs from other amino acids by the composition of an R group. Animal Kingdom. Multicellular eukaryotic group characterized by heterotrophic nutritional mode, usually organ and tissue development, and motility sometime during the organism's life history One of three domains. This domain only has one kingdom, the archeabacteria. Taxonomic kingdom of ancient (over 3.5 billion years old) group of prokaryotes; These bacteria tend to live in extreme environments (very hot, highly acidic or basic, etc) A method of reproduction in which genetically identical offspring are produced from a single parent; occurs by many mechanisms, including fission, budding, and fragmentation. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 10 autosomes bacteria benedict’s solution binary fission bromthymol blue solution carbohydrates carrier protein cell cell cycle cell membrane cell membrane cell theory The chromosomes other than the sex chromosomes. Each member of an autosome pair (in diploid organisms) is of similar length and in the genes it carries. single-celled organisms that have no nuclei. Also called prokaryotes. A chemical indicator that tests for the presence of simple sugars. It begins as a blue color. If mixed with a sugar solution and heated, it will turn green, yellow and orange indicating that sugar is present. The method by which bacteria reproduce. The circular DNA molecule is replicated; then the cell splits into two identical cells, each containing an exact copy of the original cell's DNA. A chemical indicator that tests for the presence of CO2. Useful in cellular respiration experiments. At low levels of CO2 the liquid is blue. At high levels of CO2 the liquid is yellow. Organic molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen that serve as energy sources and structural materials for cells a protein molecule in the cell membrane that assist the movement of material across the cell membrane. the smallest functioning unit of an organisms; all living organism made up of at least one cell. The smallest structural units of living matter capable of functioning independently The sequence of events from one division of a cell to the next; consists of mitosis (or division) and interphase. regulated the passage of material into and out of the cell organelle that encloses the cytoplasm and other cell organelles and regulates the passage of materials into and out of the cell. Has 3 parts; all living things are made of cells, cells are the basic units of structure and function, cells come from other living cells. surrounds the cell and gives structural support to the cell, made of chitin or cellulose cell wall cellular respiration Structure produced by some cells outside their cell membrane; variously composed of chitin, peptidoglycan, or cellulose. the process that uses oxygen to create ATP for energy use. the process of releasing chemical energy stored in food (glucose) the process of converting the energy in glucose into a form more easily used by a cell. The transfer of energy from various molecules to produce ATP; occurs in the mitochondria of eukaryotes, the cytoplasm of prokaryotes. In the process, oxygen is consumed and carbon dioxide is generated. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 11 cellulose central vacuole centriole centromere chitin chlorophyll chloroplasts Chordata chromatid chromosomal mutation chromosome cilia cloning concentration consumers cytokinesis A polysaccharide that is composed of unbranched chains of glucose; the major structural carbohydrate of plants, insoluble in water, and indigestible in the human intestine. A large vacuole found in plant cells that contains mostly water. It helps regulate the rigidity of the plant cell. a cell organelle found in animal cells that functions in the process of cell division. the area of attachment of two chromatids in a double-stranded chromosome. A polysaccharide substance contained in fungi; also forms part of the hard outer covering of insects. The pigment in green plants that absorbs solar energy. organelle within in plant cells that contain the pigment chlorophyll and carry out photosynthesis Disk-like organelles with a double membrane found in eukaryotic plant cells; contain thylakoids and are the site of photosynthesis. ATP is generated during photosynthesis by chemiosmosis. a phylum of the Animal Kingdom whose members (chordates) have internal skeletons made of cartilage and/or bone. one strand of a double-stranded chromosome. an alteration in the structure of a chromosome, involving many genes: nondisjuction, translocation, addition, deletion structures composed of DNA that contain the genetic material. Structures in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell that consist of DNA molecules that contain the genes. small, hair-like structures in paramecium and other unicellular organisms that aid in nutrition and locomotion. Also, extending from the membrane of many eukaryotic cells. often function in locomotion (sing.: cilium). the production of identical individuals from the cell of another individual. # of grams of solute / # mL of solvent; organisms that obtain their energy by feeding on other organisms; Heterotrophic organisms The higher levels in a food pyramid; consist of primary consumers, which feed on the producers, and secondary consumers, which feed on the primary consumers. The division of the cytoplasm during cell division. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 12 the watery fluid that fills a cell, surrounding the organelles. cytoplasm cytoskeleton daughter cell daughter nucleus dialysis tubing decomposers deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) diffusion diploid diploid chromosome number DNA replication double-stranded chromosome The viscous semi-liquid inside the plasma membrane of a cell; contains various macromolecules and organelles in solution and suspension. Where most of a cell’s chemical reactions take place. Network of protein filaments within some cells that helps the cell maintain its shape and is involved in many forms of cell movement. a cell that results from mitotic cell division (gametes results from meiosis) One of the two nuclei that form as a result of mitosis Plastic tube with tiny holes that allow some molecules to pass through and not others. Used for diffusion and osmosis experiments. Heterotrophic organisms that obtain their energy by feeding on decaying organisms. The hereditary material of all organisms, which contains the instructions for cellular activities, a nucleic acid molecule. A nucleic acid composed of two polynucleotide strands wound around a central axis to form a double helix; the repository of genetic information. Nucleic acid that functions as the physical carrier of inheritance for 99% of all species. The molecule is double-stranded and composed of two strands in an antiparallel and complementary arrangement. The basic unit, the nucleotide, consists of a molecule of deoxyribose sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. No energy is used, passive transport The spontaneous movement of particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. Cells that contain homologous chromosomes. The number of chromosomes in the cells is the diploid number and is equal to 2n (n is the number of homologous pairs). the number of chromosomes found in the somatic cells of sexually reproducing organisms. Copying process by which a cell duplicates its DNA. Occurs during the S phase of cell cycle. The two-stranded structure that results from chromosomal replication. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 13 egg the female gamete that supplies half the genetic information to the zygote. An organism in the early stage of development: following fertilization and before it is born, or hatched. embryo endoplasmic reticulum (ER) energy enzyme Eubacteria eukaryote facilitated diffusion fertilization fetus flagella fraternal twin Term applied to the zygote after the beginning of mitosis that produces a multicellular structure. A network of membranous tubules in the cytoplasm of a cell; involved in the production of phospholipids, proteins, and other functions. Rough ER is studded with ribosomes; smooth ER is not. The ability to bring about changes or to do work. Protein molecules that act as catalysts in biochemical reactions. The kingdom that includes the true bacteria such as E. coli.. The eubacteria have cell walls containing peptidoglycan. Belong to the domain, Bacteria. A type of cell found in many organisms including single-celled protists and multicellular fungi, plants, and animals; characterized by a membrane-bounded nucleus and other membraneous organelles; an organism composed of such cells. The first eukaryotes are encountered in rocks approximately 1.2-1.5 billion years old. Movement of specific molecules across cell membranes through protein channels. Is a type of passive transport. Energy is not required. in sexual reproduction, the process by which an egg cell and a sperm cell unite to form a zygote. The fusion of two gametes (sperm and ovum) to produce a zygote that develops into a new individual with a genetic heritage derived from both parents. Strictly speaking, fertilization can be divided into the fusion of the cells (plasmogamy) and the fusion of nuclei (karyogamy). in humans, the developing embryo after the first three months of development. Microscopic, whiplike structures found on certain cells that aid in locomotion and circulation. long, whip-like locomotion organelles found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells; sing.: flagellum. Eukaryotic flagella have an internal arrangement of microtubules in a 9 + 2 array. in humans, twin offspring that result from the simultaneous fertilization of two ova by two sperms; such twins are not genetically identical. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 14 Heterotrophic organisms that obtain their energy by feeding on decaying organisms; yeast mushrooms Fungi gametes gametogenesis gene germ cells gestation glucose Golgi complex or Golgi apparatus or Golgi body haploid haploid number of chromosomes hypertonic hypotonic Non-mobile, heterotrophic, mostly multicellular eukaryotes, including yeasts and mushrooms. One of the four kingdoms in the domain, Eukarya. the male and female sex cells that combine to form a zygote during fertilization a specialized, haploid, reproductive cell produced by sexually reproducing organisms. Haploid reproductive cells (ovum and sperm). the process of cell division by which gametes are produced. the segments of DNA that contain the genetic information for a particular trait or protein. Specific segments of DNA that control cell structure and function; the functional units of inheritance. Sequence of DNA bases usually code for a polypeptide sequence of amino acids. Collective term for cells in the reproductive organs of multicellular organisms that divide by meiosis to produce gametes. the period of prenatal development of a placental mammal; human gestation requires approximately 9 months. a monosaccharide produced in photosynthesis and used by both plants and animals as a “fuel” in the process of respiration. A six-carbon single sugar; the most common energy source. cell organelles that package cell products and move them to the cell membrane for secretion. Organelles in animal cells composed of a series of fattened sacs that sort, chemically modify, and package proteins produced on the rough endoplasmic reticulum. Cells that contain only one member of each homologous pair of chromosomes (haploid number = n). At fertilization, two haploid gametes fuse to form a single cell with a diploid number of chromosomes. the number of chromosomes found in gametes of sexually reproducing organisms. The concentration of a solution in one area is higher than the concentration of the solution in another area. The concentration of a solution in one area is lower than the concentration of the solution in another area. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 15 identical twins iodine ion isotonic kingdoms lysosomes meiosis metabolism micrometer mitochondria in humans, twin offspring resulting from the separation of the embryonic cell mass of a single fertilization into two separate masses, such as twins are genetically identical. A chemical indicator that turns midnight blue when starch is present. It starts out as a yellow/gold color. An atom that has lost or gained electrons from its outer shell and therefore has a positive or negative charge, respectively; symbolized by a superscript plus or minus sign and sometimes a number, e.g., H+, Na+1, ClThe concentration of a solution in one area is equal to the concentration of the solution in another area. a major taxonomic groupings into which all living things are categorized. six broad taxonomic categories (Archeabacteria, Eubacteria, Protista, Plantae, Fungi, Animalia) into which organisms are grouped, based on common characteristics. an organelle containing digestive enzymes used by the cell for chemical digestion. The lysosomes fuse with food vacuoles and enzymes contained within the lysosome chemically breakdown and/or digest the food vacuole's contents. the division of one parent cell into four daughter cells; reduces the number of chromosomes to one-half the normal number. Cell division in which the chromosomes replicate, followed by two nuclear divisions. Each of the resulting gametes (in animals, spores in plants) receives a haploid set of chromosomes. Reduction/division by which ploidy, the number of sets of homologous chromosomes, is reduced in the formation of haploid cells that become gametes (or gametophytes in plants). all the chemical reactions that take place in an organism. equal to one-millionth of a meter 0.00001 m; used for measuring cells and organelles. (µm) the organelle that makes ATP; a substance used by cells as an immediate source of chemical energy for the cell. Self-replicating membrane-bound cytoplasmic organelles in most eukaryotic cells that complete the breakdown of glucose, producing NADH and ATP (singular term: mitochondrion). The powerhouse of the cell. Organelles within eukaryotes that generate (by chemiosmosis) most of the ATP the cell needs to function and stay alive. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 16 The division of the cell's nucleus into two identical daughter cell nuclei. mitosis mitotic cell division (vs. meiotic cell division) monohybrid cross multicellular mutation nuclear envelope nucleolus nucleus (cell) nutrients oogenesis organ organelles The division of the cell's nucleus and nuclear material of a cell; consists of four stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase. Cell Xeroxing. Mitosis occurs only in eukaryotes. The DNA of the cell is replicated during interphase of the cell cycle and then segregated during the four phases of mitosis. a type of cell division that results in the production of two daughter cells identical to each other and to the parent cell. In genetics, a cross that involves only one trait. Organisms made up of more than one cell, and having specialization of cells. Organisms composed of multiple cells and exhibiting some division of labor and specialization of cell structure and function. Any change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA; can involve substitutions, insertions, or deletions of one or more nucleotides. There can also be chromosomal mutations A double membrane that surrounds the nucleus of a cell. organelle located within the nucleus that is involved in making ribosomes an organelle that contains the cell’s genetic information in the form of chromosomes. The largest, most prominent organelle in eukaryotic cells; a round or oval body that is surrounded by the nuclear envelope and contains the genetic information necessary for control of cell structure and function. important molecules in food, such as lipids, proteins, and vitamins. a type of meiotic division in which one ovum and three polar bodies are produced form each primary sex cell. structure made up of similar tissues that work together to perform the same task structures within a that perform a particular task; e.g., the vacuole Cell components that carry out individual functions; e.g., the cell nucleus and the endoplasmic reticulum. Subcellular structures (usually membrane-bound and unique to eukaryotes) that perform some function, e.g. chloroplast, mitochondrion, nucleus. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 17 organism osmosis ovary ovum An individual, composed of organ systems (if multicellular). Multiple organisms make up a population. Diffusion of water molecules across a membrane in response to differences in solute concentration. Water moves from areas of high-water/low-solute concentration to areas of low-water/highsolute concentration. Diffusion of water across a semipermeable barrier such as a cell membrane, from high water potential (concentration) to lower water potential (concentration). the female reproductive organs that produce the ova, the mature egg cell. a type of gamete produced as a result of oogenesis in female animals; the egg, the female sex cell. movement of substances across a membrane; requires no use of energy. passive transport phagocytosis photosynthesis Plantae plasma membrane Products prokaryote Diffusion across a plasma membrane in which the cell expends no energy. the process by which ameba surrounds and ingests large food particles for intracellular digestion. The process by which plant cells use the energy of sunlight convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, with oxygen being released. The conversion of unusable sunlight energy into usable chemical energy, associated with the actions of chlorophyll. The plant kingdom; nonmobile, autotrophic, multicellular eukaryotes. Kingdom of the plants, autotrophic eukaryotes with cellulose in their cell walls and starch as a carbohydrate storage product, with chlorophylls a and b as photosynthesis pigments. One of the four kingdoms in the domain Eukarya. Same as the cell membrane that controls what enters and leaves a cell. Made of a phospholipid bilayer. What is made in a chemical reaction. The items listed in a chemical equation on the right hand side of the arrow. Type of cell that lacks a membrane-bound nucleus and has no membrane organelles; a bacterium. Prokaryotes are more primitive than eukaryotes. Cells lacking membrane-bound organelles and having a single circular chromosome, and ribosomes surrounded by a cell membrane. Prokaryotes were the first forms of life on earth, evolving over 3.5 billion years ago. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 18 the group of organic compounds made up of chains of amino acids. proteins Protista psuedopod reactants reproduction ribonucleic acid (RNA) Nucleic acid containing ribosome S phase selectively permeable sex cell Polymers made up of amino acids that perform a wide variety of cellular functions. One of the classes of organic macromolecules that function as structural and control elements in living systems. Proteins are polymers of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. Kingdom that includes unicellular organisms with nuclei. The taxonomic Kingdom from which the other three eukaryotic kingdoms (Fungi, Animalia and Plantae) are thought to have evolved. The earliest eukaryotes were single-celled organisms that would today be placed in this admittedly not monophyletic group. The endosymbiosis theory suggests that eukaryotes may have evolved independently several times. One of the four kingdoms that is part of the domain, Eukarya. False foot; A feature of the amoeba (protist) that helps the amoeba move and engulf food through phagocytosis. What goes into the chemical reaction. The items listed in a chemical equation on the left hand side of the arrow. the production of offspring by either sexual or asexual means. ribose sugar and the base Uracil; RNA functions in protein synthesis. The single stranded molecule transcribed from one strand of the DNA. There are three types of RNA, each is involved in protein synthesis. RNA is made up nucleotides containing the sugar ribose, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases (adenine, uracil, cytosine or guanine). organelle where protein synthesis occurs. Small organelles made of rRNA and protein in the cytoplasm of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells; aid in the production of proteins on the rough endoplasmic reticulum and ribosome complexes. The site of protein synthesis. The ribosome is composed of two subunits that attach to the mRNA at the beginning of protein synthesis and detach when the polypeptide has been translated. That period of interphase when new DNA is synthesized as part of replication of the chromatin. Term describing a barrier that allows some chemicals to pass but not others. The cell membrane is such a barrier sometimes called a semipermeable membrane the male of female gamete; it has one-half the normal chromosome number as a result of meiosis. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 19 a pair of homologous chromosomes carrying genes that determine the sex of an individual; these chromosomes are designated ad X and Y sex chromosomes The chromosomes that determine the sex of an organism. In humans, females have two X chromosomes, and males have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. Chromosome that determines the gender (sex) of the individual. Human males have a large X and a smaller Y sex chromosomes, while human females have two X sex chromosomes. reproduction that requires two parents to pass on genetic information. sexual reproduction sperm spermatogenesis spindle apparatus Synthesis succession synthesis testes tetrad tissues turgor pressure unicellular . uterus vacuoles vesicles virus A system of reproduction in which two haploid sex cells (gametes) fuse to produce a diploid zygote. The male gamete that supplies half of the genetic information to the zygote a type of meiotic cell division in which four sperm cells are produced for each primary sex cell. a network of fibers that form during cell division and to which centromeres attach during the separation of chromosomes. To make the gradual replacement of one ecological community by another until it reaches a point of stability. the process in which organisms manufacture the complex compounds required to sustain life. the pair of male reproductive organs that produce sperm cells a grouping of chromatids that results from a synapsis groups of similar cells that work together to perform the same function,; e.g., muscle tissue Pressure placed on the cell wall of a plant cell. If a plant cell swells because water is moving in, the turgor pressure is high. If the turgor pressure is low, the plant cell is not filled with water and it may appear as wilted. Single-celled in female mammals, the reproductive organs that holds the developing embryo organelle that store materials; e.g., Membrane-bound fluid-filled spaces in plant and animal cells that remove waste products and store ingested food. Small membrane-bound spaces in most plant and animal cells that transport macromolecules into and out of the cell and carry materials between organelles in the cell. a particle of genetic material that can replicate only within a living host cell, where it usually causes harm. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 20 X-chromosome zygote Y-chromosome One of the sex chromosomes. (XX=female, XY = male) the fertilized egg that is formed when the nuclei of two gametes (a male and a female) fuse. A fertilized egg. A diploid cell resulting from fertilization of an egg by a sperm cell. One of the sex chromosomes. (XX=female, XY = male) Genetics MCAS Vocabulary (click here to return to table of contents) a nitrogenous base found in DNA and RNA molecules adenine alleles amino acids autosomes base pairs blood blood group or type One of the four nitrogen-containing bases occurring in nucleotides, the building blocks of the organic macromolecule group known as nucleic acids (DNA and RNA). Adenine is also the base in the energy carrying molecule ATP (adenosine triphosphate) which is the energy coin of the cell. different versions of a gene for a particular trait. organic compound that are the building blocks of proteins. The subunits (monomers) from which proteins (polymers) are assembled. Each amino acid consists of an amino functional group, and a carboxyl acid group, and differs from other amino acids by the composition of an R group. The chromosomes other than the sex chromosomes. Each member of an autosome pair (in diploid organisms) is of similar length and in the genes it carries. A pair of complementary nucleotides in DNA. A (adenine) pairs with T (thymine) and G (guanine) pairs with C (cytosine). fluid that functions to transport nutrients and gases to all parts of the body. One of the classes into which blood can be separated on the basis of the presence or absence of certain antigens; notably, the ABO types and the Rh blood group. Blood types, A, AB, B and O is a genetic example of multiple alleles. the area of attachment of two chromatids in a double-stranded centromere chromosome. chemical reaction process in which one or more substances are changed into others chromatid one strand of a double-stranded chromosome. chromosomal an alteration in the structure of a chromosome, involving many mutation genes: nondisjuction, translocation, addition, deletion Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 21 structures composed of DNA that contain the genetic material. chromosome cloning codominance codon color blindness complementary nucleotides cytosine daughter cell deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) deoxyribose Structures in the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell that consist of DNA molecules that contain the genes. the production of identical individuals from the cell of another individual. a type of intermediate inheritance that results from the simultaneous expression of two dominant alleles with contrasting effects. White and Red → Pink A type of inheritance in which heterozygotes express both alleles. A sequence of three nucleotides in messenger RNA that codes for a single amino acid. Three-base sequence of mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid or termination. inability to distinguish one or several colors gene is on the X chromosome therefore color blindness represents a sex-linked trait. Females are not as likely to be affected because females have 2 X chromosomes. Males are more likely to be affected because they have XY. The bonding preferences of nucleotides, Adenine with Thymine, and Cytosine with Guanine. Also referred to as complementary base pairing. nitrogenous base found in both DNA and RNA a cell that results from mitotic cell division (gametes results from meiosis) The hereditary material of all organisms, which contains the instructions for cellular activities, a nucleic acid molecule. A nucleic acid composed of two polynucleotide strands wound around a central axis to form a double helix; the repository of genetic information. Nucleic acid that functions as the physical carrier of inheritance for 99% of all species. The molecule is double-stranded and composed of two strands in an antiparallel and complementary arrangement. The basic unit, the nucleotide, consists of a molecule of deoxyribose sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases Five-carbon sugar found in nucleotides of DNA. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 22 In genetics, a cross that involves two sets of characteristics. AaBb x AaBb; refers to two traits (di=two) and the genotype for each of the traits is hybrid or heterozygous. dihybrid cross diploid diploid chromosome number DNA replication DNA template The phenotypic ratio is 9:3:3:1; 9 will show the dominant phenotype for both traits, 3 will show the dominant phenotype for trait A and the recessive phenotype for trait B, 3 will show the recessive phenotype for trait A and the dominant phenotype for trait B and 1 will show the recessive phenotype for both traits. Cells that contain homologous chromosomes. The number of chromosomes in the cells is the diploid number and is equal to 2n (n is the number of homologous pairs). the number of chromosomes found in the somatic cells of sexually reproducing organisms. Copying process by which a cell duplicates its DNA. Occurs during the S phase of cell cycle. in DNA replication, the original molecule that is used to make copies a pattern of genetic inheritance in which the effects of a dominant allele mask those of a recessive allele. dominance The property of one of a pair of alleles that suppresses the expression of the other member of the pair in heterozygotes. An allele (gene) whose effect masks that of the recessive allele. dominant allele double helix double-stranded chromosome egg Refers to an allele of a gene that is always expressed in heterozygotes. The shape of the DNA molecule. Also known as a spiral staircase. The two-stranded structure that results from chromosomal replication. the female gamete that supplies half the genetic information to the zygote. An organism in the early stage of development: following fertilization and before it is born, or hatched. embryo expression F1 generation Term applied to the zygote after the beginning of mitosis that produces a multicellular structure. In relation to genes, the phenotypic manifestation of a trait. Expression may be age-dependent (e.g., Huntington disease) or affected by environmental factors (e.g., dark fur on Siamese cats). The first generation of offspring that the parents produce. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 23 in sexual reproduction, the process by which an egg cell and a sperm cell unite to form a zygote. fertilization fetus frameshift mutation fraternal twin gametes gene genetic code genetics genome genotype guanine The fusion of two gametes (sperm and ovum) to produce a zygote that develops into a new individual with a genetic heritage derived from both parents. Strictly speaking, fertilization can be divided into the fusion of the cells (plasmogamy) and the fusion of nuclei (karyogamy). in humans, the developing embryo after the first three months of development. Mutation that shifts the “reading” frame of the genetic message by inserting or deleting a nucleotide in humans, twin offspring that result from the simultaneous fertilization of two ova by two sperms; such twins are not genetically identical. the male and female sex cells that combine to form a zygote during fertilization a specialized, haploid, reproductive cell produced by sexually reproducing organisms. Haploid reproductive cells (ovum and sperm). the segments of DNA that contain the genetic information for a particular trait or protein. Specific segments of DNA that control cell structure and function; the functional units of inheritance. Sequence of DNA bases usually code for a polypeptide sequence of amino acids. The linear series of nucleotides, read as triplets, that specifies the sequence of amino acids in proteins. Each triplet specific an amino acid, and the same codons are used for the same amino acids in almost all life-forms, an indication of the universal nature of the code. The study of the structure and function of genes and the transmission of genes from parents to offspring. 1. The set of genes carried by an individual. 2. The set of genes shared by members of a reproductive unit such as a population or species. The particular combination of genes in an allele pair. The genetic (allelic) makeup of an organism with regard to an observed trait. nitrogenous base found in both DNA and RNA Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 24 A sex-linked recessive genetic disorder that results in failure of the blood to clot. hemophilia hereditary heterozygous homologous chromosomes homozygous Huntington’s disease identical twins incomplete dominance independent assortment inheritance meiosis monohybrid cross mRNA (messenger RNA) multiple alleles a condition caused when a zygote receives an X chromosome with a particular recessive allele. Males are more likely to be affected than females because males have only one X chromosome. describes the genetic information that is passed from parents to offspring. Having two different alleles (one dominant, one recessive) of a gene pair. a pair of chromosomes that carry corresponding genes for the same traits. Having identical alleles for a given gene. A dominant genetic disorder that doesn’t show symptoms until the individual is in his 50s. Nerve cells die and do not work. a condition caused when a zygote receives a mutated dominant allele in humans, twin offspring resulting from the separation of the embryonic cell mass of a single fertilization into two separate masses, such as twins are genetically identical. Situation in which one allele is not completely dominant over another. Results in a blended phenotype. Example: some flowers produce pink flowers when white and red plants are crossed. Mendel's second law; holds that during gamete formation, alleles in one gene pair segregate into gametes independently of the alleles of other gene pairs. As a result, the gametes will contain all combinations of alleles possible for that organism. the process by which traits are passed from one generation to the next. the division of one parent cell into four daughter cells; reduces the number of chromosomes to one-half the normal number. Cell division in which the chromosomes replicate, followed by two nuclear divisions. Each of the resulting gametes (in animals, spores in plants) receives a haploid set of chromosomes. Reduction/division by which ploidy, the number of sets of homologous chromosomes, is reduced in the formation of haploid cells that become gametes (or gametophytes in plants). In genetics, a cross that involves only one trait. RNA molecule that carries copies of instructions for the assembly of amino acids into proteins from DNA to the rest of the cell. Three or more alleles of the same gene. Example – blood type Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 25 mutagenic agent mutation nitrogenous base nucleic acids nucleotide nucleotide sequences nucleotides nucleus (cell) offspring pedigree analysis phenotype point mutation polygenic inheritance principle of independent assortment any environmental condition that initiates or accelerates genetic mutation Any change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA; can involve substitutions, insertions, or deletions of one or more nucleotides. There can also be chromosomal mutations a chemical unit composed of carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen that is a component part of a nucleotide unit. Polymers composed of nucleotides; e.g., DNA and RNA. Monomer of nucleic acids made up of a 5-carbon sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base The genetic code encrypted in the sequence of bases along a nucleic acid. the building blocks or subunits of DNA; they include four types of nitrogen bases, which occur only in pairs. The subunits of nucleic acids; composed of a phosphate, a sugar, and a nitrogen-containing base. The fundamental structural unit of the nucleic acid group of organic macromolecules. Some nucleotides are involved in information storage (as nucleotides in DNA), protein synthesis (as nucleotides in RNA), and energy transfers (as single nucleotide ATP, GTP, and double nucleotide NADH and NADPH). an organelle that contains the cell’s genetic information in the form of chromosomes. The largest, most prominent organelle in eukaryotic cells; a round or oval body that is surrounded by the nuclear envelope and contains the genetic information necessary for control of cell structure and function. The children of a parental cross A type of genetic analysis in which a trait is traced through several generations of a family to determine how the trait is inherited. The information is displayed in a pedigree chart using standard symbols. The observed properties or outward appearance of a trait. The physical expression of the alleles possessed by an organism. Mutation that affects a single nucleotide, usually by substituting one nucleotide for another. Occurs when a trait is controlled by several gene pairs; usually results in continuous variation. Mendel's second law; holds that during gamete formation, alleles in one gene pair segregate into gametes independently of the alleles of other gene pairs. As a result, if enough gametes are produced, the collective group of gametes will contain all combinations of alleles possible for that organism. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 26 principle of segregation probability proteins Punnett square radiation recessive recessive allele replication reproduction ribonucleic acid (RNA) Nucleic acid containing ribose ribosome rRNA (ribosomal RNA) selective breeding sex cell Mendel's First law; holds that each pair of factors of heredity separate during gamete formation so that each gamete receives one member of a pair. Likelihood that a particular event will occur the group of organic compounds made up of chains of amino acids. Polymers made up of amino acids that perform a wide variety of cellular functions. One of the classes of organic macromolecules that function as structural and control elements in living systems. Proteins are polymers of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. Diagram showing the gene combinations that might result from a genetic cross a form of energy that can cause genetic mutations in sex cells and body cells. Refers to an allele of a gene that is expressed when the dominant allele is not present. An allele expressed only in homozygous form, when the dominant allele is absent. an allele (gene) whose effect is masked by that of its dominant allele. Process by which DNA is duplicated prior to cell division. the production of offspring by either sexual or asexual means. ribose sugar and the base Uracil; RNA functions in protein synthesis. The single starnded molecule transcribed from one strand of the DNA. There are three types of RNA, each is involved in protein synthesis. RNA is made up nucleotides containing the sugar ribose, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases (adenine, uracil, cytosine or guanine). Sugar found in nucleotides of RNA and in ATP. organelle where protein synthesis occurs. Small organelles made of rRNA and protein in the cytoplasm of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells; aid in the production of proteins on the rough endoplasmic reticulum and ribosome complexes. The site of protein synthesis. The ribosome is composed of two subunits that attach to the mRNA at the beginning of protein synthesis and detach when the polypeptide has been translated. Type of RNA that makes up the major part of ribosomes. the process by which humans encourage the development of specific traits by breeding only the plants or animals that have those traits. HOW OULD YOU AS A DOG BREEDER CREATE A DOG THAT LOOKS REALLY DIFFERENT? the male of female gamete; it has one-half the normal chromosome number as a result of meiosis. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 27 a pair of homologous chromosomes carrying genes that determine the sex of an individual; these chromosomes are designated ad X and Y sex chromosomes sex linkage sex-linked trait sexual reproduction Sickle cell anemia sperm spermatogenesis Sugar/phosphate backbone Synthesis test cross Thymine transcription translation translocation triplet codon The chromosomes that determine the sex of an organism. In humans, females have two X chromosomes, and males have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. Chromosome that determines the gender (sex) of the individual. Human males have a large X and a smaller Y sex chromosomes, while human females have two X sex chromosomes. a pattern of inheritance in which certain nonsex genes are located on the X chromosomes, but have no corresponding alleles on the Y sex chromosome. a genetic trait whose inheritance is controlled by the genetic patterns of sex linkage, such as color blindness. reproduction that requires two parents to pass on genetic information. A system of reproduction in which two haploid sex cells (gametes) fuse to produce a diploid zygote. a condition caused when a zygote receives a recessive allele for hemoglobin from each parent individuals that are heterozygous are resistant to malaria The male gamete that supplies half of the genetic information to the zygote a type of meiotic cell division in which four sperm cells are produced for each primary sex cell. The DNA double helix is made of two strand of DNA. The sides of the DNA ladder are made of alternating sugar and phosphate groups. The rungs of the ladder are made of the nitrogen base pairs. To make a genetic cross accomplished for the purpose of determining the genotype of an organism expressing a dominant phenotype: the unknown is crossed with a homozygous recessive. a nitrogenous base found only in DNA The synthesis of RNA from a DNA template. The making of RNA from one strand of the DNA molecule. The synthesis of protein on a template of messenger RNA; consists of three steps: initiation, elongation, and termination. Making of a polypeptide sequence by translating the genetic code of an mRNA molecule associated with a ribosome. a type of chromosome mutation in which a section of a chromosome is transferred to a nonhomologous chromosome a group of three nitrogenous bases that provide information for the placement of amino acids in the synthesis of proteins. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 28 a condition caused when a zygote receives three copies of chromosome 16 Trisomy 16 tRNA (transfer RNA) uracil variability X-chromosome Y-chromosome zygote Trisomy means 3 copies of a chromosome. Other examples are trisomy 18 and trisomy 21. Trisomy 21 is also called Downs Syndrome. Type of RNA molecule that transfers amino acids to ribosomes during protein synthesis nitrogenous base found only in RNA the differences that exist among offspring in their genetic makeup One of the sex chromosomes. (XX=female, XY = male) One of the sex chromosomes. (XX=female, XY = male) the fertilized egg that is formed when the nuclei of two gametes (a male and a female) fuse. A fertilized egg. A diploid cell resulting from fertilization of an egg by a sperm cell. Anatomy and Physiology MCAS Vocabulary (click here to return to table of contents) alveoli arteries bone brain capillaries carbon dioxide cardiac muscle cartilage cell cell communication circulatory system Tiny air sac at the end of a bronchiole in the lungs that provides surface area for gas exchange to occur Large blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the tissues of the body A hard tissue that makes up the skeletal system. Blood cells are made inside some bones. Control center of your body made up of a mass of nervous tissues that receives, interprets and reacts to messages.. The brain and spinal cord are part of the central nervous system. Smallest blood vessel; brings nutrients and oxygen to the tissues and absorbs carbon dioxide and waste products. the inorganic compound from which plants get carbon for photosynthesis; waste product of cellular respiration Heart muscle tissue Strong connective tissue that supports the body and is softer and more flexible than bone Collection of living matter enclosed by a barrier that separates the cell from its surroundings; basic unit of all forms of life is required for coordination of body functions. The nerves communicate with electrochemical signals, hormones circulate through the blood, and some cells produce signals to communicate only with nearby cells. Transports nutrients and oxygen to cells and removes cell wastes. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 29 converts macromolecules from food into smaller molecules that can be used by cells for energy and for repair and growth. energy The ability to bring about changes or to do work. esophagus Food tube connecting the mouth to the stomach Is closely associated with the circulatory system as the kidneys and liver perform the excretory function of removing waste from the excretory system blood. Kidneys remove nitrogenous wastes, and the liver removes many toxic compounds from blood. Process in which the product or result stops, limits or starts the next feedback loop step in the process. The central organ of the circulatory system. It is a muscular organ heart that pumps blood. The atria receive blood and the ventricles pump blood out of the heart. Iron-containing protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen hemoglobin form the lungs to the tissues of the body Process by which organisms maintain a relatively stable internal homeostasis environment. Organ that removes urea, excess water, and other waste products kidney from the blood and passes them to the ureter. Colon; organ that removes water from the undigested materials that large intestine pass through it larynx Structure in the throat containing the vocal cords ligaments Strip of tough connective tissue that holds bones together at a joint Large organ just above the stomach that produces bile, a fluid liver loaded with lipids and salts. Main organs of the respiratory system where the gases oxygen and lungs carbon dioxide are exchanged. Large molecules that make up living organisms; carbohydrates, macromolecules lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids Carry impulses from the brain and the spinal cord to muscles and motor neurons glands Where food enters the digestive system. Here food is chewed mouth (mechanical digestion) and mixed with saliva (chemical digestion). works with other systems to support the body and allow for muscular/skeletal movement. system Bones produce blood cells. Mediates communication among different parts of the body and nervous system mediates the body’s interactions with the environment. Basic unit of the nervous system is the neuron. neuron Cell that carries messages throughout the nervous system nitrogenous Waste that is found in the blood and filter out by the kidneys, waste specifically urea with contains a lot of nitrogen The sense organ for smell. It is also the location in which air can nose enter the respiratory system. nutrients Chemical substance that an organism requires to live digestive system Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 30 organ pharynx rectum red blood cells reproductive system respiratory system sensory neurons skeletal muscle small intestine smooth muscle spinal cord stomach tendons tissue trachea veins Group of tissues that work together to perform closely related functions Muscular tube at the end of the gastrovascular cavity, or throat, that connects the mouth with the rest of the digestive tract and serves as a passageway for air and food. Where solid waste is stored before it leaves the body as feces. Blood cell that carries oxygen allows organisms to produce offspring that receive half of their genetic information from their mother and half from their father, and that sexually produced offspring resemble, but are not identical to, either of their parents. Provides exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Neuron that reacts to a specific stimulus, such as light or sound, by sending impulses to other neurons and eventually to the central nervous system. Carry impulses from the sense organs to the spinal cord and brain Muscle attached to the skeleton; makes movement possible Digestive organ in which most chemical digestion takes place Muscle that causes movements that you cannot control Made up of many nerves that extend down your back and is protected by the backbone. The brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system. Large muscular sac that continues the mechanical and chemical digestion of food Tough connective tissue that joins skeletal muscles to bones Group of similar cells that perform a particular function Windpipe; tube through which air moves A blood vessel that returns blood to the heart Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 31 Evolution and Biodiversity MCAS Vocabulary (click here to return to table of contents) special characteristics that make an organism well suited for its environment, helping to make that organism survive and reproduce, may be a structural; adaptation, biochemical, or behavioral. adaptation adaptive radiation analogous structures ancestor Animalia. antibiotic resistance antibiotics Archaea Archaebacteria Tendency of an organism to suit its environment; one of the major points of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection: organisms adapt to their environment. Those organisms best adapted will have a greater chance of surviving and passing their genes on to the next generation. The development of a variety of species from a single ancestral form; occurs when a new habitat becomes available to a population. Evolutionary pattern of divergence of a great many taxa from a common ancestral species as a result of novel adaptations or a recent mass extinction. Examples: mammals during the Cenozoic Era after the extinction of dinosaurs at the close of the Mesozoic Era flowering plants during the Cretaceous Period diversified because of their reproductive advantages over gymnosperm and nonseed plants that dominated the floras of the world at that time. Body parts that serve the same function in different organisms, but differ in structure and embryological development; e. g., the wings of insects and birds. The organism from which from which later kinds evolved. Animal Kingdom. Multicellular eukaryotic group characterized by heterotrophic nutritional mode, usually organ and tissue development, and motility sometime during the organism's life history Tendency of certain bacteria to develop a resistance to commonly over-used antibiotics. chemicals that kill specific bacteria, used to combat infection One of three domains. This domain only has one kingdom, the archeabacteria. Taxonomic kingdom of ancient (over 3.5 billion years old) group of prokaryotes; These bacteria tend to live in extreme environments (very hot, highly acidic or basic, etc) Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 32 artificial selection asexual reproduction biodiversity biological control classes classification common ancestry common descent comparative anatomy comparative biochemistry comparative cytology comparative embryology convergent evolution descend The process in which breeders choose the variants to be used to produce succeeding generations. A method of reproduction in which genetically identical offspring are produced from a single parent; occurs by many mechanisms, including fission, budding, and fragmentation. the variety of different species in an ecosystem the use of natural enemies of various agricultural pests for pest control, eliminating the use of pesticides. Taxonomic subcategories of phyla. categorizing organisms, the sorting, grouping and naming of organisms for easier study. an important concept of evolutionary theory that all organisms share a common ancestor whose closeness varies with the degree of similarity. Principle that all living things have a common ancestor the study of similarities in the anatomical structures of organisms, and their use as an indicator of common ancestry and as evidence of organic evolution the study of similarities in the biochemical makeup of organisms, and their use as an indicator of common ancestry and as evidence of organic evolution the study of similarities in the cell structures of organisms, and their use as an indicator of common ancestry and as evidence of organic evolution the study of similarities in the embryological development of organisms, and their use as an indicator of common ancestry and as evidence of organic evolution The development of similar structures in distantly related organisms as a result of adapting to similar environments and/or strategies of life. Example: wings of birds and insects, the body shape of dolphins, sharks, and the extinct marine reptiles known as ichthyosaurs. To come from an ancestor. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 33 The hereditary material of all organisms, which contains the instructions for cellular activities, a nucleic acid molecule. deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) divergent evolution diversity Domain A nucleic acid composed of two polynucleotide strands wound around a central axis to form a double helix; the repository of genetic information. Nucleic acid that functions as the physical carrier of inheritance for 99% of all species. The molecule is double-stranded and composed of two strands in an antiparallel and complementary arrangement. The basic unit, the nucleotide, consists of a molecule of deoxyribose sugar, a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases The divergence of a single interbreeding population or species into two or more descendant species. The different types of organisms that live in an ecosystem. Most inclusive taxonomic category; larger than a kingdom. There are three domains, Bacteria, Archea, Eukarya An organism in the early stage of development: following fertilization and before it is born, or hatched. embryo Eubacteria Eukarya eukaryote Term applied to the zygote after the beginning of mitosis that produces a multicellular structure. The kingdom that includes the true bacteria such as E. coli.. The eubacteria have cell walls containing peptidoglycan. Belong to the domain, Bacteria. Domain of all organisms whose cells have nuclei, including protests, plants, fungi and animals. A type of cell found in many organisms including single-celled protists and multicellular fungi, plants, and animals; characterized by a membrane-bounded nucleus and other membraneous organelles; an organism composed of such cells. The first eukaryotes are encountered in rocks approximately 1.2-1.5 billion years old. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 34 the change in organisms over time due to natural selection acting on genetic variations that enable them (the organisms) to adapt to changing environments. evolution extinction fitness The change in life over time by adaptation, variation, over-reproduction, and differential survival/reproduction, a process referred to by Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace as natural selection. 2) Descent with modification. the death of all living members of a species A measure of an individual's ability to survive and reproduce; the chance that an individual will leave more offspring in the next generation than other individuals. traces or remains of dead organisms preserved by natural processes (e.g., in rocks, amber, etc) fossil fossil record The remains or traces of prehistoric life preserved in rocks of the Earth's crust. 2. Any evidence of past life. The observed remains of once-living organisms taken as a whole. Heterotrophic organisms that obtain their energy by feeding on decaying organisms; yeast mushrooms Fungi gene pool genera genetic diversity or genetic variation geographic isolation Non-mobile, heterotrophic, mostly multicellular eukaryotes, including yeasts and mushrooms. The sum of all the genetic information carried by members of a population. Taxonomic subcategories within families (sing.: genus), composed of one or more species. Sum total of all the different forms of genetic information carried by all organisms living on Earth today. Separation of populations of a species by geographic barriers (distance, mountains, rivers, oceans, etc.), that lead to reproductive isolation of those population facilitating the evolutionary process. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 35 Body parts in different species that have a common evolutionary origin, but may not serve the same function, e.g., the flipper of a whale and the forelimb of a horse. homologous structures insecticide interbreed kingdoms mutation Body parts in different organisms that have similar bones and similar arrangements of muscles, blood vessels, and nerves and undergo similar embryological development, but do not necessarily serve the same function; e.g., the flipper of a whale and the forelimb of a horse. A substance used to kill insects. To breed or cause to breed within a narrow range. a major taxonomic groupings into which all living things are categorized. six broad taxonomic categories (Archeabacteria, Eubacteria, Protista, Plantae, Fungi, Animalia) into which organisms are grouped, based on common characteristics. Any change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA; can involve substitutions, insertions, or deletions of one or more nucleotides. There can also be chromosomal mutations a concept central to Darwin’s theory of evolution: the individuals best adapted to their environment tend to survive and pass their favorable traits on to the next generation. the process by which organisms having the most adaptive traits for an environment are more likely to survive and reproduce natural selection orders The process of differential survival and reproduction of fitter genotypes; can be stabilizing, directional, or disruptive. Better adapted individuals are more likely to survive to reproductive age and thus leave more offspring and make a larger contribution to the gene pool than do less fit individuals. The differential survival and reproductive successes of individuals in a variable population that powers the evolutionary process. When all individuals survive and reproduce (except for chance occurrences) natural selection works at a lower rate, if at all. Taxonomic subcategories of classes. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 36 pesticide phylum Plantae population Protista reproductive isolation resistant selective breeding species speciation chemical used to kill agricultural pests, mainly insects. a level of biological classification that is a major subdivision of the kingdom level. The plant kingdom; nonmobile, autotrophic, multicellular eukaryotes. Kingdom of the plants, autotrophic eukaryotes with cellulose in their cell walls and starch as a carbohydrate storage product, with chlorophylls a and b as photosynthesis pigments. all the individuals of the same species that live in the same area. A group of individuals of the same species living in the same area at the same time and sharing a common gene pool. A group of potentially interbreeding organisms in a geographic area. one of the five kingdoms; it includes unicellular organisms with nuclei. The taxonomic Kingdom from which the other three eukaryotic kingdoms (Fungi, Animalia and Plantae) are thought to have evolved. The earliest eukaryotes were single-celled organisms that would today be placed in this admittedly not monophyletic group. The endosymbiosis theory suggests that eukaryotes may have evolved independently several times. the inability of species varieties to interbreed and produce fertile offspring, because of variations in behavior or chromosomes. To work against the process by which humans encourage the development of specific traits by breeding only the plants or animals that have those traits. HOW COULD YOU AS A DOG BREEDER CREATE A DOG THAT LOOKS REALLY DIFFERENT? a group of related organisms that can breed and produce fertile offspring One or more populations of interbreeding or potentially interbreeding organisms that are reproductively isolated in nature from all other organisms. Populations of individuals capable of interbreeding and producing viable, fertile offspring. The least inclusive taxonomic category commonly used. the process by which new species arise form previously existing species. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 37 subspecies taxonomy variability vestigial organ A taxonomic subdivision of a species; a population of a particular region genetically distinguishable from other such populations and capable of interbreeding with them. A systematic method of classifying plants and animals. Classification of organisms based on degrees of similarity purportedly representing evolutionary (phylogenetic) relatedness. the differences that exist among offspring in their genetic makeup Organ that serves no useful function in an organism Ecology MCAS Vocabulary (click here to return to table of contents) abiotic factor algae atmosphere nonliving parts of an organism’s environment. single-celled plant-like organism that carry out photosynthesis The blanket of gases that cover the Earth; commonly called The envelope of gases that surrounds the Earth; consists largely of nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%). the smallest unit of an element that can combine with other elements. atom The smallest indivisible particle of matter that can have an independent existence. A type of nutrition in which organism can manufacture their own organic foods from inorganic materials, an organism that obtains its food from inorganic sources autotroph bacteria biochemical cycle biodiversity biological control biomass biome Organisms that make their own food; include some bacteria that are able to synthesize organic molecules from simpler inorganic compounds. single-celled organisms that have no nuclei The flow of an element through the living tissue and physical environment of an ecosystem; e. g., the carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus cycles. the variety of different species in an ecosystem the use of natural enemies of various agricultural pests for pest control, eliminating the use of pesticides. the total mass of the organisms at a trophic level a very large area characterized by certain climate and types of plants and animals Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 38 biosphere biotic factor birth rate carbon carbon cycle carbon dioxide carnivores carrying capacity cellular respiration climate commensalisms community community succession competition condensation The portion of the earth in which living things exist, including all land and water environments. living parts of an organism’s environment. The number of offspring born in a particular amount of time. If the birth rate increases, the population size will increase over time. If the birth rate decreases, the population size will decrease over time. one of the six most important chemical elements for living things, forms the backbone of nearly all organic compounds. Carbon is in the form of CO2 in the atmosphere, it is taken in by producers for photosynthesis and turned into sugars, and it is then passed to consumers and decomposers in a food chain. Carbon is returned to the atmosphere as CO2 when organisms breathe out or fossil fuels are burned. the inorganic compound from which plants get carbon for photosynthesis; waste product of cellular respiration CO2 an animal that obtain energy by eating other animals. Carnivores function as secondary, tertiary, or top consumers in food chains and food webs. Largest number of individuals of a population that a given environment can support the process that uses oxygen to create ATP for energy use. the process of releasing chemical energy stored in food (glucose) the process of converting the energy in glucose into a form more easily used by a cell. The transfer of energy from various molecules to produce ATP; occurs in the mitochondria of eukaryotes, the cytoplasm of prokaryotes. In the process, oxygen is consumed and carbon dioxide is generated. Average, year-after-year conditions of temperature and precipitation in a particular region Symbiotic relationship in which one member of the association benefits and the other is neither helped nor harmed. populations of different species that interact within an area. All species or populations living in the same area. The sequential replacement of species in a community by immigration of new species and by local extinction of old ones. the struggle between organisms for limited resources such as food and space. When a substance changes from a gas to a liquid. Example; water vapor turning into water droplets on a mirror. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 39 organisms that obtain their energy by feeding on other organisms; Heterotrophic organisms consumers crop rotation death rate DDT decomposers density diversity ecology ecosystem The higher levels in a food pyramid; consist of primary consumers, which feed on the producers, and secondary consumers, which feed on the primary consumers. When farmers plant corn in a field one year, beans the next year and alternate back a forth each year. (corn and beans are just an example) The number of organisms in a population that die in a particular amount of time. A pesticide that kills a lot of different insects. It is used to protect crops and kill disease-carrying mosquitoes. DDT was banned in the US during the 1970s because of its harm to fish-eating birds like the osprey, brown pelican and bald eagle. Heterotrophic organisms that obtain their energy by feeding on decaying organisms. Number of living organisms in a specific area The different types of organisms that live in an ecosystem. The study of how organisms interact with each other and with their physical environment. The area that contains all the living and nonliving parts that interact. The simplest form of matter; an element is a substance made up of a single type of atom, element emigration energy energy flow energy pyramid environment evaporation extinction fertilizer flora A substance composed of atoms with the same atomic number; cannot be broken down in ordinary chemical reactions. Movement of individuals out of a population. The ability to bring about changes or to do work. The movement of energy through a community via feeding relationships. describes the flow of energy through an ecosystem; more energy is at the base (producers) and decreases at each higher level (consumers). 10% rule An area that contains the living and nonliving parts that interact. The part of the hydrologic cycle in which liquid water is converted to vapor and enters the atmosphere. the death of all living members of a species Any of a large number of natural and man-made materials, including manure and nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium compounds, spread on or worked into soil to increase its capacity to support plant growth. the plant species in an ecological community Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 40 the direct transfer of energy from one organism to the next, a segment of a food web. food chain food pyramid food web fossil fuels The simplest representation of energy flow in a community. At the base is energy stored in plants, which are eaten by small organisms, which in turn are eaten by progressively larger organisms; the food chain is an oversimplification in that most animals do not eat only one type of organism. A way of depicting energy flow in an ecosystem; shows producers (mostly plants or other phototrophs) on the First level and consumers on the higher levels. the interconnecting food chains in an ecosystem. A complex network of feeding interrelations among species in a natural ecosystem; more accurate and more complex depiction of energy flow than a food chain. Fuels that are formed in the Earth from plant or animal remains; e.g., coal, petroleum, and natural gas. Heterotrophic organisms that obtain their energy by feeding on decaying organisms; yeast mushrooms Fungi habitat herbivores heterotroph immigration invasive species invertebrate animals Non-mobile, heterotrophic, mostly multicellular eukaryotes, including yeasts and mushrooms. the place where an organism lives.; a specific environment that has an interacting community of organisms. animals that obtain their energy by eating plants. Term pertaining to a heterotrophs, usually an animal, that eats plants or algae. Herbivores function in food chains and food webs as primary consumers. Organisms that obtain their nutrition by breaking down organic molecules in foods; include animals and fungi. an organism that obtains its energy by feeding on other living things, e/g consumers Refers to organisms, such as animals, that depend on preformed organic molecules from the environment (or another organism) as a source of nutrients/energy. Movement of individuals into an area occupied by an existing population Plants and animals that have migrated to places where they are not native Animal that does not have a backbone or vertebral column Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 41 A type of plant (bean, clover, alfalfa) that is important in the nitrogen cycle. legumes mutualism niche nitrate nitrifying bacteria nitrogen nitrogen cycle nitrogen fixation nutrients omnivore organic compound organism over-harvesting oxygen cycle parasite parasitism pesticide Bacteria live in nodules on the roots of legume plants and convert atmospheric nitrogen into nitrates the plant can use. a type of symbiosis that is beneficial to both organisms in the relationship the role an organism plays in its environment an organism’s role in, or interaction with its habitat and ecosystem. NO3-; a compound that plants and animals can use to get the nitrogen to make proteins and nucleic acids. in the nitrogen cycle, bacteria that absorb ammonia and convert it to nitrate. An element important in proteins and nucleic acids. Atmospheric nitrogen (N2) cannot be taken in by plants or animals and used. Bacteria in nodules on legume plants change N2 into ammonia during nitrogen fixation the process by which nitrogen is recycled and made available for use by other organisms. Bacteria in nodules on legume plants change N2 into ammonia important molecules in food, such as lipids, proteins, and vitamins. organisms (animals) that eat both plants and animals compounds that contains carbon and hydrogen (in living things) An individual, composed of organ systems (if multicellular). Multiple organisms make up a population. The process of removing a lot of organisms from an environment at a time. Example; fishermen can over-harvest tuna by removing a lot of tuna from the ocean at any one time. O2 gas is in the air. Animals take in O2 for cellular respiration and release C O2 as a waste product. Many producers take in C O2 for photosynthesis and release O2 as a waste product. an organism that lives in or on another organism (the host), deriving nutrients from it and usually causing it harm. a type of symbiosis from which one organism in the relationship benefits, while the other (the host) is harmed , but not ordinarily killed. chemical used to kill agricultural pests, mainly insects. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 42 photosynthesis The process by which plant cells use the energy of sunlight convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, with oxygen being released. The conversion of unusable sunlight energy into usable chemical energy, associated with the actions of chlorophyll. all the individuals of the same species that live in the same area. population precipitation predator prey primary consumer A group of individuals of the same species living in the same area at the same time and sharing a common gene pool. A group of potentially interbreeding organisms in a geographic area. The part of the hydrologic cycle in which the water vapor in the atmosphere falls to Earth as rain or snow. an organism that feeds on other living organisms an organism that is eaten by another organism (the predator) any herbivorous organism that receives food energy from the producer level; the second stage of the food chain. organisms on the first trophic level, which obtain their energy from inorganic sources; (i.e., photosynthesis); autotrophic lifeforms such as plants and algae. producers The first level in a food pyramid; consist of organisms that generate the food used by all other organisms in the ecosystem; usually consist of plants making food by photosynthesis. the group of organic compounds made up of chains of amino acids. proteins protists protozoa. pyramid of biomass pyramid of energy runoff scavengers simple sugars Polymers made up of amino acids that perform a wide variety of cellular functions. One of the classes of organic macromolecules that function as structural and control elements in living systems. Proteins are polymers of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. Single-celled organisms; a type of eukaryote. Protista Single-celled protists grouped by their method of locomotion. This group includes Paramecium, Amoeba, and many other commonly observed protists illustrates that the total biomass available in each stage of a food chain diminishes from producer level to consumer level. illustrates that energy is lost a each trophic level in a food chain, being most abundant at the producer level. Rainfall not absorbed by soil that drains or flows off, as rain that flows off from the land in streams animals that eat the remains of kill, rather than hunt the living animals. single sugars that have six carbon atoms; glucose Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 43 a group of related organisms that can breed and produce fertile offspring One or more populations of interbreeding or potentially interbreeding organisms that are reproductively isolated in nature from all other organisms. Populations of individuals capable of interbreeding and producing viable, fertile offspring. The least inclusive taxonomic category commonly used. the process by which new species arise form previously existing speciation species. A taxonomic subdivision of a species; a population of a subspecies particular region genetically distinguishable from other such populations and capable of interbreeding with them. the gradual replacement of one ecological community by another succession until it reaches a point of stability. a close relationship between two or more different organisms that symbiosis live together, which is often but not always beneficial. a terrestrial biome characterized by long, severe winters and taiga climax flora that include coniferous trees. temperate deciduous a terrestrial biome characterized by moderate climatic conditions forest and climax flora that includes deciduous trees. terrestrial the land (aquatic is water) The loss of water molecules from the leaves of a plant; creates an transpiration osmotic gradient; producing tension that pulls water upward from the roots. trophic level Step in a food chain or food web a terrestrial biome characterized by permanently frozen soil and tundra climax flora that includes lichens and mosses. Water moving between the ocean, atmosphere and land. Water enters the atmosphere through evaporation and transpiration. The water vapor condenses into clouds and the water returns to Earth water cycle through a form of precipitation. Water flows into the ground or ocean and the process starts over. species Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 44 How can studying Latin roots help a student with vocabulary mastery? (click here to return to table of contents) a, an (G)--not; without; negative: asexual, abiogenesis, atrophy ab (L)-off; from; away: abduct ad, af (L)-to; toward: adductor, adrenal, adhere, afferent ana (G)-through: anaphase, anatomy, anabolic ante (L)-before; the front: anterior anti (G)-opposite; against: antigen, antifreeze, anti-parallel archae (G)-ancient: archenteron, archaeology, archaic, archeabacteria ase (?)-enzyme: lactase, maltase, dehydrogenase auto (G)-self: autonomic, autosome, autograph, automobile bi (L)-two: bisexual, binary, biweekly, biennial, bicycle bio (G)-life; live: biology, biogenetic, biography, biometry capil (L)-hair: capillary cardio (G)--heart: cardiac, cardiovascular carn (L)-fIesh; meat: carnivore, chili con carne cata (G)-downward; inferior:, catalyst centa (G)--1/100: centimeter cerv (L)-neck: cervix, cervical chlor (G)-green: chlorine, chloroplast, chiorphylll, chlorotic chrom (G)--color: chromatin, chromatic, chromium, chromosome cilio (L)--hair: cilium, ciliate, ciliophoran circa (L)-around; approximately: circle, circumnavigate, circa cyt (G)-cell: cytology, erythrocyte, chondrocyte, osteocyte, cytoplasm deca (G)--ten: decimal, decameter, decathalon dendr (G)-tree: dendrite, dendrology derm (G)-skin: dermis, ectoderm, hypodermic di (G)-two, second, or double: dihybrid, dimer, diploid, diencephalon (but not dissect) dis (L)-separating from or parting from: dissect, dismiss, discover, disaster dorm (L)-sleep: dormant, dormatory dorso (L)--the back: dorsal, dorsum ect (G)-outer: ectoderm, ectoplasm ef, ex (L)-away; from; outward: efferent, exoskeleton, excretion end (G)-inner: endoderm, endoplasm, endopodite eu (G)-good; well; real; true: eukaryotic, euchromatin, eugenic, eutherian, eutrophic fer (L)-bearing; carrying; possessing: seminiferous, gam (G)--marriage: polygamy, gamete, gemetogenesis gaster (G)--stomach: gastric, gastrula, gastropod, gastrin gen, gem (L)-be born; create; produce: gene, genetics, progenitor, heme (G)--blood: hemocoel, hematology, hemoglobin Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 45 herb (L)-grass; soft plant; plant: herbivore, herbaceous hetero (G)-different; other: heterochromatin, heterozygous, heterosexual hexa (G)-six: hexose, hexagon homo (L)-human; man: Homo sapiens homo (G)--same; like; similar: homogeneous; homologous; homosexual hydro (G)-water: hydrology, dehydration, hydration, hydrogen, hydrophilic, hyper (G)--over; beyond: hyperosmotic, hyperthyroidic, hyperactive hypo (G)--under; less than: hypodermis, hypodermic, hypomere, hyposmotic karyo, caryo (G)-nucleus, kernel, nut: eukaryotic, megakaryocyte, karyotype kilo (G)--thousand: kilometer, kilogram infra (L)--below. infrared, inferior, infrastructure inter (L)--between; among: intercellular, interphase, interim intra (L)-inside; within: intracellular, intravascular Iso (G)--equal: isometric, isogamy, isoptera, isosmotic, isotonic latus (L)--the side: lateral leuc, leuk (G)--white; bright: leucocyte, leukemia ling (L)--tongue: lingual, linguistic log (G)--study; discourse: biology, geology, zoology Iys (G)-losing; dissolving, breaking: hydrolysis, catalysis, plasmolysis, glycolysis macro (G)--Iarge: macromolecule, macroscopic, macroeconomics, macronucleus medi (L)-middle: medial, mediate, intermedial mega (L)-great: megakaryocyte, megawatt micro (G)--small; tiny; 1/1,000,000: microscope, micrometer, microcomputer milli (L)--1/1,OOO: millimeter mito (G)-thread: mitosis, mitochondrion mono (G)-one; single: monosaccharide, monocular, mononuclear leucocyte myo (G)-muscle: myosin, myofibril, myotome, myocardium nephro (G)--kidney: nepric, epinephrine, pronephros nom (L)--name: taxonomy, innominate, nomenclature noto (G)--dorsal; back: notochord, pronotum oid (L)-like; resembling: diploid, humanoid, anthropoid oo (G)-egg: oocyte, oogenesis, ootid (pronounced two long o's in sequence, as in "oh, oh") ose (?)--sugar: glucose, sucrose, lactose, fructose, ribose ov (L)-egg: ovum, oviparous, oviduct para (G)--near; beside: parathryoid, parapodia, paragraph peri (G)-around: pericardium, perichondrium, perimeter phag (G)-eat: phagocyte, phagocytosis, euphagic phil (G)-attraction for; love for: neutrophil, philanthropy, hydrophilic photo (G)--light: photosynthesis, photophorphoryation, photograph, photon phyll (G)-leaf: chlorophyll, phyllotaxy plasma (G)-something formed; a fluid: cytoplasm, nucleoplasm, protoplasm ped (L)--Ieg, stock, or stem: milliped, pedicellaria, pedicle, pedestrian penta (G)--five: pentose, pentagon, pentamer pod (G)-leg; appendage: arthropod, endopodite, podiatry, pseudopod poly (G)-many: polymer, polysaccharide, polypeptide, polymorphonuclear Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 46 post (L)-behind; after; rear: posterior, postmortem pro, proto (G)--first, for: protein, protoplasm, proton, prophase, proponent, promote pseudo (G)-false; fake: pseudopod, pseudocoel, pseudonym, pseudostratified ren (L)-kidney: renal, adrenalin, renin sacchar (G)--sugar; sweet: monosaccharide, disaccharide, polysaccharide, saccharine semi, hemi (L)-half: semicircle, semi-annual, hemisphere soma (G)--body: somatic, somite, chromosome stom (G)--mouth: stomadeum, nephrostome, stomate syn, sym (G)-together: symbiosis, syncytium, synapse, synchrony, synthesis, symphony tax (G)-arrangement: taxon, taxonomy, ataxia tel (G)-end; far; distant: telencephalon, telophase, telophone, telomere, television tetra (G)-four: tetrose, tetramer therm (G)-heat; temperature; ectothermic, heterothermic, thermometer, thermostat tri (L)-three: triose, tripeptide, triploid, tricycle troph (G)--food: eutrophic, stenotrophic, autotrophic, heterotrophic, trophoblast trop (G)--to turn toward; to go to: gonadotropin, tropism ultra (L)-beyond: ultraviolet, ultracentrifuge, ultramarine, ultrasound vas (L)--vessel: vascular, vas deferens vivi (L)-alive: viviparous, vivid, vivisection, vivaceous vor (L)--eat: voracious, carnivore, omnivore, herbivore zo (G)--animal: zoology, protozoon, zoological garden (pronounced 2 long o's in succession) zyg (g)--united; tied together: zygote, heterozygous, homozygous (click here to return to table of contents) Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 47 How can a student best study science vocabulary words? (click here to return to table of contents) To truly understand the concepts in science you must know the vocabulary. How do you learn science vocabulary? Learning science vocabulary requires specific strategies and real effort. The key is practice, practice and practice. Vocabulary is learned by: • • • • • • • Hearing the word read to you Saying it out loud and practicing its pronunciation Knowing Latin prefixes, suffixes and root words. Knowing its definition Reading the word in its proper context Practice using the word correctly in sentences Linking related vocabulary words together by concepts How can you practice vocabulary? • • • • Make flash cards or a power point to learn definitions include the Latin roots, prefixes and suffixes used Write fill-in the blank sentences that correctly use the word in context. Practice reading these sentences out loud. Review vocabulary words before and after your read your textbook. Write graphic organizers to show how words are related. A complete copy of the NRP report Teaching Children to Read: An Evidence Based Assessment of the Scientific Research Literature on Reading and Its Implications for Reading Instruction-Reports of the sub groups is available on line at www.nationalreadingpanel.org. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 48 How can a student get a better score on an open response question? (click here to return to table of contents) Things to remember: 1. Each open response question (4 pts.) counts four times more than any one multiple-choice question. 2. Never leave an open response question blank. The scorers are really trying to give you as many points as your answer will allow. 3. Open response questions in science do not always require an answer in complete sentences. You answer could be a chart, graph, diagram, picture or a list. 4. Use the simplest format for your answer. You writing should not hide or obscure your answer to the question. Spelling, neat writing and complete sentences do make a difference in your score. Steps to Follow: 1. Read the question through three times. a. First Time: Carefully read the question to identify the topic of the question and what the question wants you to do. i. Topic = ____________________________. b. Second time: Reread the question and underline all the science key words; write them down. i. Key words: _____________________________. ii. Brainstorm: Write down words that go with the key words___________________________________ c. Third Time: Reread the question and circle the direction words. (Diagram, compare / contrast, list, explain, classify, describe, differences / similarities, what, where, how and when i. The question wants me to ___________________ (direction word) 2. Decide if the answer should be bulleted or written in paragraph form. a. If list, compare/contrast, similarities/ differences, classify, group → Bullet i. Do not use one-word answers. Use either complete sentences or descriptive phrases. b. If describe, explain, tell the process, how → Paragraph; or why --Æ paragraph. i. Begin the paragraph with a topic sentence that rephrases questions. ii. Use facts to support your answer. iii. End the paragraph with a concluding sentence. 3. When writing your answer… a. Use complete sentences or phrases. b. Use correct punctuation, especially periods. c. Use science vocabulary from the brainstorm list. d. Incorporate the definitions of the science vocabulary into the response. e. Use specific number data rather than large, small, fast, slow, medium f. Use specific words rather than this, that, it, they, thing, them. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 49 4. Reread as if you were the teacher by silently talking to yourself. a. Fill in any missing words b. Check for capitalization and periods. c. Replace any words such as; this, that, it, they, thing, them with specific words 5. Reread the question and make sure that all parts of the question have been answered. a. Letter or number the responses, if necessary. (click here to return to table of contents) Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 50 How do direction words give students clues for writing open response answers? (click here to return to table of contents) If you are asked to: Analyze Classify Compare Contrast You should do the following Draw a conclusion, make a judgment, or make clear a relationship Place items in related groups, then name or title each group Tell how things are alike, use concrete examples. Tell how things are different, use supporting examples. Defend Give enough details to prove the statement Define Describe Give the meaning Give an account in words, trace the outline or present a picture. Use pictures, graphs, charts and graphic organizers to show the relationship between key ideas. Present all the sides to an issue Diagram Discuss Distinguish Tell how this is different from others similar to it. Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 Examples What is the relationship between time and distance traveled? Listed below are ten organisms, classify them into the 5 kingdoms and name the kingdoms. How are the bat and the human structurally similar? How is the process of respiration and photosynthesis different. The cell is the unit of structure and function in allliving things. Define plankton Describe the process by which food is digested in our digestive tract. Diagram a typical food web found in the marine environment. Explain the arguments for and against stem cell research Distinguish between the process of mitosis and meiosis 51 If you are asked to: Explain You should do the following Make clear, give the reason or cause List Write in a numbered fashion Outline Use a shortened form to organize main ideas supporting details and examples. Put in your own words Paraphrase Examples Explain how a forest fire can be good for the environment. List the 206 bones of the human body. Outline the flow of blood through the human body. Paraphrase the first paragraph of the article on heart disease. What would you expect Predict Present solutions that could from an experiment that happen if certain variables were present or being tested. tested if plants need light to grow? Review the effects of Review Examine the information gravity on the growing of below and analyze the the roots of pea plant. reliability of the conclusion 21 Teachers Reshaping the profession of teaching”. Teachers21.org. (click here to return to table of contents) Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 52 What are the hints for taking multiple-choice tests? (click here to return to table of contents) 1. Read all directions carefully before beginning. 2. There is no penalty for guessing on the science MCAS test. Do not leave a multiple-choice question unanswered. You should always make the best possible guess. 3. Think about the answer to the question before you look at the answers. However, be sure to read all answers before selecting one. Sometimes two answers will be similar, but only one will be correct. 4. Here are some guidelines that will help you correctly answer multiple-choice items. a. Circle or underline important words in the item. This will help you focus on the information most needed to identify the correct answer choice. b. Read all the answer choices before selecting one. It is just as likely for the last answer choice to be correct as the first. c. Cross out answer choices you are certain are not correct. This will help you narrow down the correct answer choice. d. Look for two answer choices that are opposites. One of these two choices is likely to be correct. e. Look for hints about the correct answer choice in other items on the test. The correct answer choice may be part of another item on the test. f. Look for answer choices that contain language used by your teacher or found in your textbooks. An answer choice that contains such language is usually correct. g. Do not change your initial answer unless you are sure another answer choice is correct. More often than not, your first choice is correct. h. Choose “all of the above” if you are certain all other answer choices in the item are correct. Do not choose “all of the above” if even just one of the other answer choices is not correct. i. Choose “none of the above” if you are certain all other answer choices in the item are incorrect. Do not choose “none of the above” if even just one of the other answer choices is correct. http://www.testtakingtips.com/ (click here to return to table of contents) Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 53 Where can students and parents access sample biology MCAS tests? Sample biology MCAS tests are available on Blackboard under the course “HS Students”. Students may select practice questions by topic or they may select comprehensive sample tests. (click here to return to table of contents) Dedham High School MCAS Biology Review Book for Students and Parents Updated 8/20/07 54